Statement from Green Party of Ontario Leader Mike Schreiner on International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia

(Toronto) Today is the International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia. The GPO re-affirms our commitment to ending homophobia and transphobia in Ontario.

Twenty-one years ago on this day, homosexuality was removed from the International Classification of Diseases of the World Health Organization (WHO). This victory was a historic step towards recognizing freedom of sexual orientation and gender identity.

The GPO is committed to working with Ontarians to ensure our province provides a welcoming, safe and equal place for all people. May 17 is a day for all of us to reach out to those who are particularly vulnerable to homophobic and transphobic bullying.

The GPO would especially like to recognize the dedicated teachers and students who fight against bullying through Gay Straight Alliances (GSAs). Our schools must be safe for all students and staff. Far too many LGBT students still face extreme cases of bullying. This abuse can lead to dropping out of school, social isolation and, tragically, death and suicide.

The GPO calls on the three parties at Queen’s Park to work together to pass anti-bullying legislation. The GPO believes it is essential that all students have the right to form anti-bullying organizations and to call them GSAs if they desire.